Fatigue Load Spectra for Steel Girder Bridges

摘要

The project objective is to develop the procedure for evaluation of live loadspectra on Michigan bridges. Evaluation procedures are also provided for steel girder bridges subjected to fatigue. The study involves both analytical and experimental efforts. The live load model is developed on the basis of weigh-in-motion (WIM) measurements, truck counts, truck surveys, and statistical analysis. Fatigue analysis focuses on the prediction of live load spectra. Field testing equipment included two data acquisition systems, two portable computers, a van, power generator, and other hardware. Most of the field equipment was specially purchased for the project. There is very little truck weight data available. Studies performed in other states did not provide reliable results, therefore in the project the major source of actual truck loads is WIM measurements. The progress report summarizes the load measurements performed on two bridges in 1992.